I think after being a foster parent you sort of get used to observing kids whenever they are around you. That is one of my favorite things to do. Children as so funny, from the expressions they make right down to the little things they do.

One day I was helping a friend out and watching her store while she went to a doctor's appointment. She sold all sorts of things from the cement ducks and cows, right down to craft beads and lace. I always felt at home in her store because one of my favorite things to do is create art and do crafty things.

Down by the entrance of the store, we kept a big three-tiered fountain. We posted a sign that said, "Feel Free To Make A Wish." The wish monies collected were given to various local children's foundations or community projects in the area for kids.

I had been watching this one little girl at the fountain for about five minutes. Her mother was happily passing her time shopping. I walked over to see if the little girl, who was about five, had a question. She sure had a curious look on her face.

When I got closer, I noticed her pockets were wet and heavy looking. She had been sneaking the change out of the fountain and putting it in her pocket. About this time her mother walked up beside us and I asked the little girl what are you doing? The mother and I both knew what she had been doing but without a sigh she just blurted out that she was being a "good citizen and recycling all the metals in the water fountain."

Well I just about burst out in laughter. That was a creative answer for such a little girl. I took her mom over to the register and checked her out and I giggled and told her not to be harsh with the little girl. Just explain what the pennies and change she took were for.

That kept a smile on my face all day long. The following week my friend called me up and she told me a little girl had just come in to the store with a jug of money and with tears in her eyes she said this is for all the children but it won't all fit in the fountain.

I knew immediately who the little girl was. I wish I had only been there to see how proud her mom must have been because she brought back a lot more change than she had taken.

Sometimes instead of scolding our kids need holding. They just need us to explain what things are for, so their little minds can understand too.

There are few moments in life that give us the ability to really teach our children "life lessons." This had been one for me and for that parent. She did an outstanding job.

As for the little lady who was recycling... well, I bet she will grow up kind hearted and very aware of her earth and the things we do to it.

If you are feeling a little down, take yourself to a local park. Put your butt on a bench and people watch. I bet some little kid can put a smile on your face for the day. After all I am sure we all are amusing to God in many ways.